The National Science and Media Museum is inviting visitors to go behind the curtain of the world’s largest live music event in a brand-new exhibition, Setting the Stage: 70 Years of the Eurovision Song Contest.
Opening on Friday 15th May, the exhibition focuses on the technological evolution that turned the contest into a global broadcast phenomenon. From the early Marconi Mk III cameras that made the first transnational broadcasts possible to high-tech Shure headsets designed for modern high-octane dance routines, the display charts seven decades of innovation in staging, lighting, and sound.
Visitors can get hands-on with the contest’s history through interactive displays, including a “Nil Points Jukebox” exploring the famous voting system and a projection-mapped dress showcasing recent digital stagecraft. For those wanting their own moment in the spotlight, a dedicated performance space allows guests to take to the stage and perform iconic Eurovision hits.
The exhibition also celebrates the fan community, featuring archive footage, iconic costumes, and fan-made ephemera. To kick off the summer season, the museum will host a Big Family Party on Saturday 16th May, featuring live music, crafts, and a silent disco.
Entry to the exhibition is included with free museum admission. For more details and to view the full programme of pop-up parties and curator tours, visit the museum’s website.
